Kevin Durant’s return to Brooklyn with the Phoenix Suns was a bittersweet moment for Nets fans. The team’s 108-84 loss to the Suns highlighted its current state, but Durant’s post-game comments offered a glimpse into his time with the organization.
Durant spoke candidly about his experience in Brooklyn, describing it as “the most fun I had in a long time playing ball.” He acknowledged the chaos surrounding the team but emphasized his enjoyment of representing the borough and its fans.
These remarks provide a different perspective on Durant’s tenure with the Nets, contrasting with some of the negative narratives that have circulated.
When discussing the factors that led to the team’s struggles, Durant pointed to injuries and an unprecedented pandemic as the primary culprits. He refuted that personality clashes were the main issue, instead focusing on the team’s inability to stay healthy and build chemistry on the court.
Durant reminisced about the brief period when he, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving were all healthy and playing together, calling it “the most incredible basketball I’ve seen and played in.”
The Current State of the Nets
The game against the Suns showcased the stark contrast between the Nets’ current roster and the star-studded lineup of recent years. With a starting five of Keon Johnson, Tyrese Martin, Jalen Wilson, Noah Clowney, and Nic Claxton, the team is rebuilding.
This loss drops the Nets to a 2-16 record in their last 18 games, placing them near the bottom of the league standings. While this stretch has been difficult for fans, it’s important to note that the team’s position in the draft lottery could be significantly impacted by just a few wins or losses.
A Glimmer of Hope: Dariq Whitehead
One bright spot in the game against the Suns was the performance of rookie Dariq Whitehead. In 15 minutes of play, Whitehead scored 12 points on 4-of-7 shooting, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc. This efficient outing provides a glimmer of hope for Whitehead’s development, especially considering his struggles in the G League this season.
While it’s important not to overreact to a single game, Whitehead’s performance demonstrates the potential that made him a first-round pick. As the Nets continue to evaluate their young talent, games like this offer valuable opportunities for players to showcase their skills at the NBA level.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Nets’ current situation and prospects, tune into the Locked On Nets podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Nets Podcast:
• The impact of injuries on the Nets’ roster
• Analyzing the team’s position in the draft lottery
• Potential trade deadline moves and roster changes
